Microsoft and Intel Get Behind HD-DVD

Microsoft and Intel have decided to back HD-DVD, the next-generation DVD format being developed by the DVD Forum, the companies said in a joint statement.

Microsoft and Intel announced their support for HD-DVD by joining the HD-DVD Promotion Group, an industry organization set up to promote adoption of the optical disc format. Members of the group include electronics makers such as NEC, Sanyo, and Toshiba, and content providers like Paramount Pictures and Universal Studios.

Change in Direction

Microsoft's decision to back HD-DVD is a change for the company, which had previously said it wanted to remain neutral in the battle between HD-DVD and Blu-ray Disc optical disc formats.

"Although the companies have determined that HD-DVD is the only viable solution at this time, each remains committed to working toward one format that meets consumer and industry requirements," Microsoft and Intel said in the statement.

The announcement pits Intel and Microsoft against several important customers in the duel over optical-disc formats. A larger number of companies have thrown their support behind Blu-ray Disc, including Apple Computer, Dell, Hewlett-Packard, Koninklijke Philips Electronics NV, Panasonic, Samsung, and Sony.